Preventing Injuries This Winter

Many times people come in to see me after a new winter injury. Some of the culprits include shoveling, ice, car accidents, and outdoor activities. Here are some basic tips to keep in mind to prevent a holiday setback. 1. Snow shoveling: Wear proper boots with good traction. Do NOT throw snow, simply push it. If you must throw it, throw it straight in front of you. Be sure to have a good shovel, and warm up before. 2. ICE: Slipping and falling on the ice in the winter leaves many people with ankle, hip, back,.............etc. injuries. The most important thing to remember is to wear shoes or boots with good traction when you are outside. Dress shoes are especially slippery, so changing into these at work will pay off and keep your feet warmer and your shoes salt-free. Step cautiously in the morning because temperatures tend to drop overnight and freeze snow. Finally, remember that your ENTIRE BODY falls. Even though you may hurt your knee or ankle or back, your whole body absorbs the impact. Getting your spine checked is especially essential to quick healing. 3. Car Accidents: The obvious number one is to avoid driving when the weather report indicates poor driving conditions. Allow extra distance between you and other cars. Turn more slowly, so that if you hit ice you don't spin out into traffic. Keep a warm blanket and jumper cables in your car over the winter for "just in case" scenarios. Finally, if you do get into an accident, get to your chiropractor A.S.A.P. to have your spine checked for subluxations. 4. Outdoor activities: I am referring to skiing, snowmobiling, sledding, ice skating etc. Remember to use caution. Skiing injuries can happen when people spend January-December not ever stretching and then decide to throw the skis on and hit the slopes. Keeping your body in good shape throughout the year will decrease your chance of injury in all areas of your life. Remember to have fun more than anything. Get outside and breathe in the fresh, crisp air. Keep your spine and body in good shape throughout the year and remember that even if you injure one part of your body, the entire thing is connected. Get your spine checked :)